How Long Should a Child’s Filling Last?

Cavities aren’t rare in kids—in fact, they’re one of the most common chronic childhood conditions, even more common than asthma. Baby teeth may seem temporary, but they play an important role in holding space for permanent teeth, helping kids chew properly, and supporting speech development. When cavities appear, fillings are often the best way to repair the tooth and protect it until it’s ready to fall out naturally.

At Anne Lindley, DDS, we often hear parents ask: How long should my child’s filling last? The answer depends on a few factors—but the good news is, with the right care, children’s fillings can do their job well for years.

How Long Fillings Typically Last in Kids

Not all fillings are the same. The material, the size of the cavity, and whether the tooth is a baby tooth or a permanent one all play a role.

• Composite (tooth-colored) fillings: Blending naturally with teeth, these usually last 5–7 years with good brushing and flossing habits.
• Amalgam (silver) fillings: Strong and durable, these can last longer—sometimes up to 10 years or more.

For baby teeth, the goal is usually just to keep the tooth healthy and functional until it naturally falls out. For permanent teeth, we want fillings that can protect the tooth for many years, sometimes well into adulthood.

What Affects the Lifespan of a Filling

Even a well-placed filling may wear down faster in certain situations. A few factors that can shorten its lifespan include:

• Large cavities: Less natural tooth structure makes the filling more vulnerable.
• Bruxism (grinding or clenching): Kids who grind at night can wear down fillings.
• Oral hygiene habits: Inconsistent brushing or skipping flossing can allow new decay to form around the filling.
• Diet: Sticky candies, constant snacking, and acidic drinks can put extra strain on fillings.
• Accidents or injuries: Biting something hard or a playground fall can crack or loosen a filling.

That’s why Dr. Anne Lindley recommends regular checkups—so we can make sure existing fillings are strong and catch small problems before they turn into bigger ones.

Helping a Child’s Filling Last Longer

Parents can play a big role in helping fillings last. A few practical tips include:

• Encourage twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste
• Make flossing part of the routine, even if your child needs help
• Limit sticky sweets and sugary drinks
• Offer water instead of juice or soda
• If your child plays sports, consider a mouthguard for added protection
• Stay consistent with regular dental visits for cleanings, exams, and fluoride treatments

Along with fillings, preventive treatments like dental sealants can help protect children’s teeth from cavities in the first place. Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, where food and bacteria often get trapped. They can significantly lower the risk of decay, reducing the need for fillings down the road.

When to Call the Dentist

Sometimes a filling needs attention sooner than expected. If your child ever says their tooth hurts, feels sensitive, or something feels “different” when they bite, it’s time to call. Fillings that loosen, chip, or fall out completely should always be checked quickly to prevent infection or further decay.

Dental Fillings at Anne Lindley, DDS in Sunnyvale, TX

At Anne Lindley, DDS, we know that healthy baby teeth lead to healthier permanent teeth—and that fillings play an important role in protecting both. Dr. Anne Lindley takes a gentle, thorough approach to children’s dentistry, helping parents understand what to expect and giving kids a positive experience at the dentist.

If your child needs a filling, or if you’d like us to check how their current ones are holding up, call our Sunnyvale, TX office today to schedule a visit. Together, we’ll help your child’s smile stay strong now and in the years to come.

Categorised in: Dental Fillings, Pediatric Dentistry